Abstract: A method of measuring a current-voltage (IV) characteristic for a photovoltaic (PV) device is described. The method includes providing a PV module for measuring an IV characteristic; exposing the PV module to a solar electromagnetic (EM) spectrum; and acquiring an IV data point on the IV characteristic. The acquisition of an IV data point includes measuring plural IV segments by repetitively applying and sweeping a voltage across the PV module from a unique initial voltage to a target voltage within a time scale for exposing said PV module to the solar EM spectrum, and interpreting a measured current at the target voltage as the IV data point on the IV characteristic if the plural IV segments converge at the target voltage.

Abstract: A solar simulator is provided having a radiation source for generating radiation with a spectral (energy) distribution that largely corresponds to the spectral distribution of sunlight. At least one filter is arranged in the region of the radiation source. This filter suppresses long wave or short wave radiation components of the radiation source. The filter is movable, basically perpendicular, to the irradiation direction of the radiation source. An irradiation plane capable of accommodating objects to be irradiated is set at a distance from the radiation source and the at least one filter such that the radiation coming directly from the radiation source, as well as the at least one filter, impinge on the irradiation plane as basically homogenous radiation of a punctiform light source.

Abstract: A method of adhesively joining two elements by an adhesive layer without gas inclusion in the adhesive layer, wherein an adhesive layer is applied over an area of a surface of a first of the two elements and channels are provided in the adhesive layer for passage of gases therein. An opening around the area of the adhesive layer is in communication with the channels to form a gas escape system so that when the elements are joined together the gases can escape from the adhesive layer via the channels and the opening.

Abstract: A solar simulator is provided having a radiation source for generating radiation with a spectral (energy) distribution that largely corresponds to the spectral distribution of sunlight. At least one filter is arranged in the region of the radiation source. This filter suppresses long wave or short wave radiation components of the radiation source. The filter is movable, basically perpendicular, to the irradiation direction of the radiation source. An irradiation plane capable of accommodating objects to be irradiated is set at a distance from the radiation source and the at least one filter such that the radiation coming directly from the radiation source, as well as the at least one filter, impinge on the irradiation plane as basically homogenous radiation of a punctiform light source.